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# Data Cable Speed and Wattage

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Not all cables are the same; USB-C cables vary wildly and can carry anywhere from 60W to 240W of power, and 480 Mbps to 40 Gbps of data. Just because a cable has the same connector shape doesn’t mean it supports high-speed transfers or fast charging.<br>

**Cable Speed and Wattage Standards**

* **USB 2.0 (Entry-Level):**
  * **Data Speed:** Up to 480 Mbps (roughly 60 MB/s).
  * **Wattage:** Often limited to 60W (20V × 3A), but older USB-A to C versions max out around 15W (5V × 3A).&#x20;
* **USB 3.2 Gen 1 (formerly USB 3.0):**
  * **Data Speed:** Up to 5 Gbps.
  * **Wattage:** Delivers up to 15W (5V × 3A) standard, but some cables support up to 60W.&#x20;
* **USB 3.2 Gen 2 / Gen 2x2:**
  * **Data Speed:** 10 Gbps to 20 Gbps.
  * **Wattage:** 60W (20V × 3A) to 100W (20V × 5A).&#x20;
* **USB4 / Thunderbolt 3 & 4 (Top Tier):**
  * **Data Speed:** Up to 40 Gbps.
  * **Wattage:** Supports up to 240W via Extended Power Range (EPR).&#x20;

Key Things to Know

* **The Connector Isn't the Cable:** The "USB-C" name only dictates the shape of the plug. The internal wiring determines exactly how fast it transmits data or charges a device.
* **E-Markers:** High-wattage (above 60W) and high-speed USB-C cables require a built-in microchip (E-marker) to safely communicate capabilities to connected devices.&#x20;
* **USB-A vs. USB-C:** Cables ending in the older, rectangular USB-A generally cap out at 7.5W to 18W, and typically stick to USB 2.0 or 3.0 data speeds.